Before I start the usual rundown of local nightlife events, please allow me to share something I’ve actually been very excited about for months: The Pet Shop Boys are performing at the Mann Music Center Sept. 22!
This is only their second performance in Philadelphia in their 30-year career, and it promises to be one of their biggest tours ever, as they are promoting their last two studio albums, “Elysium” and “Electric.” I’ve been a huge fan from the beginning and, while many think this is a comeback tour, others know they’ve been prolific since day one, with 55 singles, 46 videos, 12 studio albums, seven concert DVDs, four remix albums, two live albums, a musical, a film score and even a ballet under their belts. They’ve literally sold more than 50-million records and are recognized as the most successful pop duo in U.K. music history, having worked with the likes of Dusty Springfield, Tina Turner, Liza Minnelli, David Bowie, New Order, Blur, Madonna, Kylie Minogue, Elton John, The Killers and Lady Gaga, just to name a few.
Their music is joyous, their lyrics are introspective and they put on one hell of a show, combining dance, projections and absolutely fabulous lighting. You simply do not want to miss this event, trust me! Tickets range from $30-$65 and are available at www.ticketphiladelphia.org or www.ticketmaster.com.
Rock the Rainbow Pride Picnic
Celebrate South Jersey Pride from noon-6 p.m. Sept. 15 at Cooper River Park in Pennsauken. The free event will feature a DJ battle, drag show, dance performances, voguing contest, vendors and barbecue. You can even get your New Jersey civil union performed right at the event with their onsite official! The highlight of the day will be a performance by “RuPaul’s Drag Race” star Miss Monica Beverly Hills, followed by a meet-and-greet.
Anita’s Angels
Enjoy a Cajun dinner, then stay for the show from 8-10 p.m. Sept. 15 at the Blue Parrot Bar & Grill, 1934 W. Sixth St. in Wilmington, Del. Your hostess, Anita Mann, will be joined by Karyn Thomas and special guest Felicia O’Toole Buffington. Cover charge is only $5 and you can stay for karaoke after the show.
Way Gay PowerPlay Virgo Birthday Bash
There will be live drag, burlesque and dance performers from 8-10:30 p.m. Sept. 20 at William Way Community Center, 1315 Spruce St. It’s a Virgo Birthday Bash in honor of some of the Virgos who help make Philly so amazing, including The Notorious OMG (aka Rudy Flesher), Brian Sims, the Goddess Isis and many more. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door, with proceeds benefiting Way Gay. See www.waygay.org for tickets.
Miss’d America Pageant
The Miss’d America Pageant continues its nearly 20-year tradition of spoofing the (only slightly?) better-known Miss America Pageant at 8 p.m. Sept. 21 at the Showboat House of Blues, 801 Boardwalk in Atlantic City. This year’s host is Michelle Visage of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” and musical guest is CeCe Peniston, while a bevy of drag beauties compete in swimsuit, evening gown, interview and, of course, talent.
Peniston will also perform at a pre-party 8 p.m. Sept. 20 at ProBar in Resorts Casino Hotel. Tickets for the weekend range from $45-$100 and are available at www.ticketmaster.com. Check out www.showboatac.com for a special room rate.
Chad Michaels at ProBar
Don’t miss your chance to see Chad Michaels, the breathtaking winner of “RuPaul’s All-Star Drag Race,” at midnight Sept. 21 at ProBar in Resorts Casino Hotel. Michaels brings a level of experience and professionalism to her art that has resulted in nearly two decades of acclaim. Most famous for her impersonation of Cher (that even knocked Cher for a loop), she’s breaking new ground with the release of her first single, “Tragic Girl.”
Sunday Brunch Cruise
Join the Philadelphia Gay Tourism Caucus from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sept. 22 on board the Spirit of Philadelphia for their second annual brunch cruise. Tickets are $80 and proceeds benefit the PGTC. For tickets and more info, see www.philadelphiagaytourism.com.
Porkchop at the Venture Inn
Chicken Livermore is usually my favorite meal at Venture, but not tonight, when everyone’s favorite dish will be Porkchop! I’m talking Miss Victoria “Porkchop” Parker from “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” She was the very first to sashay away in the first season, but her charisma, uniqueness, nerves and talent have made her one of the ultimate fan favorites!
See for yourself 10 p.m. Sept. 22 at Venture Inn, 255 S. Camac St., as she takes the stage for this one-night-only event. There will be drink specials all night long and no cover.
Questions, comments, Pet Shop Boys stories to share? Contact Jim at [email protected] or follow him on Facebook for links to back articles and totally bitchin’ music videos!